Wairoa 9 July, 1859 My Dear Sir Taking it for granted that your communication of 15 June was a private one I reply in the same friendly manner. With regard to the subject of your enquiry whether the natives intend to sell a portion of Te Wairoa It is reported that it is their intention to sell the Southside of the river but to what extent up the river I have not been definitely informed. I believe Kopu is now at Napier; from him you will be able to obtain better information on that subject than I possess. My own opinion is, that if agriculture yearly advances in pooportion to what it has for the last two years, which I think it would and to a much greater extent, they can ill spare either side of Te Wairoa and if they sold it they would be sorry for it hereafter. All they could spare if any would be a portion of the south side not much above our house. I should be glad to be informed whether in the event of the land of the Southern side of the river being purchased the site for the station could be included in the purchase. All fences, buildings for schools and school materials have hither to been and are at present at a stand To remain in this state of suspense is unsatis-factory to all parties and a serious injury to the cause. If therefore there is no remedy for this state of affairs I shall if I am spared so long leave the work and the place next December. I should have answered your letter by the return of the post last Monday but have been very poorly for more than a fortnight and have been unable to write wishing you every blessing I am, Dear Sir Your Obt.Servt. J. Hamlin